Dr Mike Freelander MP, the Federal Member for Macarthur, has recently completed an interstate trip to hear from local groups, organisations and individuals living with and fighting diabetes.

The trip was part of the Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care & Sport, which Dr Freelander is the Chair of, and their Inquiry into Diabetes. The public hearings, which were held in Brisbane, Canberra, Cairns, Yarrabah & Melbourne, all occurred in less than a week.  

The Inquiry into Diabetes is “looking at all forms of diabetes including type 1, type 2, gestational diabetes, and other rarer forms such as cystic fibrosis-related diabetes” said Dr Freelander.

The public hearings were well attended and heard from a range of witnesses, including patient advocacy organisations, Indigenous & Pacific Islander groups, medical professionals and groups representing retail & produce sectors.

Regarding the interest in the Inquiry, Dr Freelander said “With over 450 submissions made to the Inquiry, we know that this is a major issue facing Australians. It is impacting Australian men, women and children of all ages and all demographics – it is truly concerning.”

With such a large collection of submissions and testimonies received, the Committee will continue to work together and produce a final report in 2024.